In about 300BC, Zeno and Epicurus each founded a school of philosophy in Athens. Both schools had roots in the quest of Socrates - how to lead a good life. However, Zeno's followers (the Stoics) were very different from the Epicureans.
Stoics believed that they were part of a divine plan and that whatever happened was meant to be. Epicureans thought human existence was just a random grouping of atoms that fell apart after death. Their motto was "don't worry, be happy". Above the entrance to their school were the words:
"Pleasure is the
highest good"
Epicurus' idea of pleasure was to enjoy the simple things in life. Plenty of time to relax was top of the list. He much preferred a simple meal eaten with friends than risk a tummy upset on a lavish banquet. In fact, he urged followers to think twice before pursuing any pleasure that might cause pain. Even falling in love can end in a broken heart.
To the stoics, a good life meant a virtuous one. They refused to be ruled by their feelings, because emotions just got in the way of good judgement. Their philosophy was to put up with their lot in life. Stoics did not try to fight fate. Their motto was to "go with the flow". Wanting what they couldn't have would bring unhappiness. They decided to want whatever they got - this way they could never feel let down.
Greece became part of the Roman Empire some 150 years after Zeno and Epicurus founded their schools. The Romans adopted and adapted these two philosophies - along with many other things Greek.
Stoicism appealed to all classes of society - from slave to emperor. But Roman Epicureans gave the school a bad name. Pleasure-seeking became an excuse for satisfying every desire and living for the moment.
Simple food, good friends, and avoiding pain were Epicurus' idea of pleasure.
Children were important to the Stoics because the future was part of a divine plan.
Stoics got their name because Zeno taught from a porch (stoa in Greek)
Epicurus founded his school in a garden in Athens, and his pupils were called "garden philosophers".
